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A narrative review exploring phage therapy as a sustainable alternative solution to combat antimicrobial resistance in Africa: Applications, challenges and future directions

1Obidi N. O., and 2Ekpunobi, N. F.

1Department of Parasitology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria

2Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: nzubefavour34@gmail.com

 

Abstract:

The increasing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Africa, coupled with limited access to advanced antibiotics and high rates of bacterial infections poses serious public health challenge. Bacteriophages, viruses that target and destroy bacteria, present a promising alternative or complementary therapy to traditional antibiotics. Phage therapy leverages its unique ability to target specific bacterial strains without affecting the host beneficial microbiota. It is an effective tool against multi-drug-resistant (MDR) microbial pathogens, particularly in resource-limited settings. This narrative review explores the potentials of phage therapy in Africa, highlighting its advantages, such as specificity, minimal side effects, and cost-effectiveness, alongside its capability to tackle biofilm-associated and AMR infections. It discusses current research and collaborations, including case studies from Nigeria, Benin, and South Africa that demonstrate the efficacy of phage therapy against bacterial pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Furthermore, it discusses the challenges to phage therapy implementation such as regulatory hurdles, public skepticism, and infrastructure limitations, while emphasizing the importance of developing local production and awareness campaigns. The review concludes by recommending the integration of phage therapy into Africa healthcare strategies to address AMR. Through strategic partnerships, education and regulatory frameworks, phage therapy could become a transformative solution, particularly for neglected diseases and infections common in low-resource settings. As Africa seeks innovative approaches to its growing AMR crisis, phage therapy stands out as a viable and adaptable option.

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Isolation and biocontrol of bacteriophages from wastewater in the city of Lomé, Togo: potential application as a novel source for antimicrobial therapy

1Ouedraogo, A. K., *1Hoekou, Y., 2Gbekley, H. E., 1Pissang, P., 1Kpatagnon K., 1Sossou, K., 2Melila, M., 3Djeri, B., and 1Tchacondo, T.

1Laboratory of Biomedical and Food Sciences and Environmental Health, Advanced School of Biological and Food Processing Techniques, Université de Lomé, Togo
2Faculty of Sciences, Laboratory of the Department of Biochemistry, Université de Lomé, Togo
3Laboratory of Microbiology and Food Quality Control, Advanced School of Biological and Food Processing Techniques, Université de Lomé, Togo

*Correspondence to: yhoekou@gmail.com; 0022890259591

Abstract:
Background: Bacteriophages offer one of the most promising solutions to the challenges of antimicrobial resistance in bacteria. The aim of this study is to investigate bacteriophages as a source of new antimicrobial therapy.

Methodology: Waste water samples were randomly collected from 8 different locations in the city of Lomé for bacteriophage isolation. The phages were isolated using multi-resistant clinical isolates (Escherichia coli 1642 and Staphylococcus aureus 0868) as hosts by means of a spot test. The host range of the phages was determined also by a spot test using 8 other clinical bacterial isolates including two reference strains (E. coli ATCC 25922 and S. aureus ATCC 29213). The virulence of the phages and their effects on bacterial growth were assessed by in vitro experiments using E. coli 1642 BBec phage suspension. Continue reading “Isolation and biocontrol of bacteriophages from wastewater in the city of Lomé, Togo: potential application as a novel source for antimicrobial therapy”